Open speed limit zones are being extended further in the Northern Territory.
Chief Minister Adam Giles said a 60km section has opened this week that creates a continuous open speed limit zone for 336km on the Stuart Highway from north of Alice Springs to the Ali Curung rail overpass (excluding past road houses and through communities).
“We want this to go further to Tennant Creek and onto Katherine,” Mr Giles said.
“The Country Liberals Government is making the drive north from Alice Springs easier by taking an evidence-based approach to speed limits on the Northern Territory’s major highways.
“Make no mistake, if Labor is elected on August 27, Labor will remove open speed limits and slow down Territory road transport, just as they would slow down the economy.
“Open speed limits are on sections of the Territory’s unique road network with long distances between towns and low traffic volumes, but the Government expects people to drive to the road conditions, safely and within their capabilities.
“This is not a licence to drive recklessly; it’s about supporting individuals to make their own decision to drive responsibly.”
Open speed limit funding in Budget 2016 includes an additional $1 million for the next 17km section, planned to be from north of the Ali Curung turn-off to south of Wycliffe Well.
Mr Giles said a re-elected Country Liberals Government will fund road improvements for additional sections:
- 75.1km between Mataranka and Larrimah;
- 47.5km between Daly Waters and Dunmurra.
“Traffic count data on the current open speed limit sections shows there has been only a small increase in driver speed, with 85 per cent of drivers travelling between 133-139kmh,” Mr Giles said.
“Upgrade works include clearing trees away from the edge of the highway, widening curves, upgrading the guardrails, stock fencing and improving line marking, reflectors and signage.
“Further sections on the Stuart and Barkly Highway will be investigated in the next term of the Country Liberals Government.”
Media contact: Michael Gorey 0437 249 003